Medical Marijuana Advocates Back Revised Initiative

Medical Marijuana Advocates Back Revised Initiative

After a 4th attempt, Medical Marijuana supporters resubmit an initiative to legalize the drug in Arkansas.

LITTLE ROCK, AR- Medical marijuana supporters resubmitted a new plan to legalize medical marijuana in Arkansas. This is the 4th time Arkansans for Compassionate Care, the organization behind the proposal, tweaked the plan after the Attorney General rejected its proposal in July. The organization took its initiative to legal experts and national organizations to get the proper feedback and extra pair of eyes the measure needs for approval.

"I think he's [Attorney General Dustin McDaniel] really trying to make sure that the bill is very clear and well written because we came so close last time. I have no doubt that it's gonna pass this time," said Melissa Fults, Arkansans for Compassionate Care.

McDaniel rejected the last submission asking for clarification on who can grow their own cannabis. He also questioned the language regarding a proposal for medical marijuana dispensaries. Fults said it's important to get this right for the tens of thousands of Arkansans who rely on medical marijuana for treatment, including her son.

"He's had 5 neck surgeries, 2 lower back surgeries. They had him on so much medication he didn't know where he was most of the time," said Fults.

Fults admitted her son's doctor recommended medical marijuana instead of opiates. Because the drug is illegal in the state, Fults says Arkansans don't have any other choice but to find it on their own.

"Same place anybody else gets marijuana in Arkansas, illegally and terrified every time you go pick it up and terrified anytime someone comes to your door," said Fults.

McDaniel is expected to come out with a decision on Tuesday. If approved, the group would have to get about 62,500 valid registered voter signatures to get on the 2014 ballot.